Shreveport, La. – The Shreveport‑Bossier region has been honored as one of only three 2026 Great American Defense Communities in the nation. The designation celebrates the deep, decades‑long partnership between Barksdale Air Force Base and the surrounding civilian community, as well as the unwavering support for Airmen, military families and veterans.
Why the honor matters
The Association of Defense Communities selects a handful of locales each year that exemplify strong collaboration among the military, business, civic and nonprofit sectors. Recipients demonstrate how local leaders can create a thriving environment for service members and their families while bolstering the regional economy.
Local leaders weigh in
“Being named one of only three Great American Defense Communities in the nation is an honor and a reflection of the longstanding partnership between Barksdale Air Force Base and Shreveport‑Bossier,” said Bossier Chamber President Lisa Johnson. “We are proud to welcome the Association of Defense Communities and showcase the strong community partnerships that have made Shreveport‑Bossier a national model for military support.”
Greater Shreveport Chamber President Tim Magner added, “This recognition is a tremendous reflection of what can happen when our business, civic and military communities work together with a shared purpose. It gives us an opportunity to celebrate those partnerships while showcasing the strength and commitment of our region to a national audience.”
Celebration events
The designation will be marked with a series of events from Thursday through Saturday.
- Military Leadership Luncheon – Thursday: Held at the Margaritaville Resort‑Casino’s Paradise Theater at 11:30 a.m., the luncheon brings together business and civic leaders to discuss programs and partnerships that support Airmen, military families and veterans. Louisiana Secretary of Veterans Affairs Charlton J. Meginley will speak on statewide veteran issues, while Barksdale leadership will address family‑readiness and quality‑of‑life priorities.
- Community Filming Day – Friday: An American Defense Communities film crew will tour the Shreveport‑Bossier area to capture interviews and footage highlighting the region’s military partnerships. The video will be featured at the upcoming recognition ceremony.
- Great American Defense Community Flag Ceremony – Saturday: At 2 p.m., during the 22nd annual Highland Jazz & Blues Festival at Columbia Park, the Great American Defense Community flag will be presented to Shreveport‑Bossier. Representatives of the Association of Defense Communities and the 2nd Bomb Wing are expected to attend.
Highland Area Partnership Executive Director Emerie Eck Holtzclaw noted, “The Highland Jazz and Blues Festival is honored to host this milestone moment for Shreveport‑Bossier. Our festival has always been about bringing the community together to celebrate our music, culture and people, making it a perfect backdrop for this recognition.”
What this means for the community
Beyond the ceremonial honors, the designation underscores the economic and social benefits that arise when military installations and local stakeholders collaborate. Strong partnerships help attract and retain service members, create jobs, and foster a sense of shared purpose that strengthens families and neighborhoods.
The Greater Shreveport Chamber and Bossier Chamber are urging businesses, civic groups and residents to join the celebrations and continue building the supportive environment that earned this national accolade.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
